GVSU Sneaks Past Northern Kentucky In PKs

DENVER, Colo. - Grand Valley State advances to the NCAA Division II national quarterfinals after defeating Northern Kentucky in a shootout 5-4 Friday (Nov. 20) evening. The #3 Lakers will face Colorado School of Mines on Sunday, Nov. 22 at 3:00 p.m. ET in Denver, Colo.

The game was scoreless through 110 minutes of regulation. The Lakers put three of their eight shots on frame in the first half, but were unable to connect. GVSU's tough backline held the Norse to only one shot the entire first half.

During the second half of play, freshman Ashley Botts had a great look at the goal with just three minutes left in regulation, but could not find the back of the net. She took a pass and headed the ball from inside the box which hit the top of the cross bar. Just 30 seconds later, Botts tried once again, but was saved by goalkeeper Rachael Wood.

Grand Valley State outshot the Norse throughout the game by an 18-4 margin, including a 7-3 advantage on shots on goal.

In the shootout Northern Kentucky took the first penalty kick which was made. Freshman Kayla Addison made her attempt, putting the shootout score at 1-1. NKU connected on its second attempt, along with GVSU's midfielder Kristen Eible. The Norse's made their third attempt, while Erin Mruz made GVSU's third attempt, putting the score to 3-3. Goalkeeper Chelsea Parise saved NKU's fourth attempt and senior Natalja Stanski made her attempt putting Grand Valley State up 4-3. Northern Kentucky put its last attempt in the back of the net, tying the score at 4-4. Botts knocked in the Lakers' last attempt, giving them the win over the Norse.

The Lakers recorded their 14th shutout, while Parise notched three saves in the match and her 11th shutout of the year. Grand Valley State remains unbeaten on the year with a record of 19-0-4.